Why Hamsters Make Good Pets? And a Few Downsides

Hamsters are incredibly popular pets, and for good reason. When I first got my Teddy, I didn’t know much about hamsters, but I quickly discovered just how rewarding it is to have one of these little furballs as a pet. Whether you’re considering a Syrian hamster like Teddy or a Dwarf hamster, here are some reasons why hamsters make great pets.

1. Low Maintenance Pets

Hamsters are relatively easy to care for compared to other pets. They don’t require daily walks like dogs, and they don’t need as much attention as cats. Aside from regular feeding, providing fresh water, and keeping their cage clean, hamsters are pretty low-maintenance. You’ll need to clean their cage weekly and spot-clean the bedding in their corners every few days, but overall, they’re not demanding pets.

2. Hamsters Are Entertaining

Even when you’re not interacting with them, hamsters are endlessly entertaining. They have quirky behaviors, like stuffing their cheeks with food or rearranging their cage. My Teddy often pushes his hideout around just to get a better view of the room, which is always amusing to watch. Hamsters are curious creatures, and watching them explore their environment can be fascinating.

3. They Take Up Little Space

Hamsters don’t require much space in your home. Their cage is the main thing that takes up room, and it doesn’t need to be very large (though it should be spacious enough for the hamster to move around comfortably). Whether you have a small apartment or a larger home, finding a spot for a hamster cage is usually pretty easy.

4. Clean and Tidy

Hamsters are surprisingly clean animals. They groom themselves frequently, similar to cats, and they’re good at keeping their living space tidy. They’ll usually designate one corner of their cage as a bathroom area, which makes it easier to keep their cage clean. If you provide a sandbath, they’ll even use it as a litter box.

5. Affordable Pets

Hamsters are also quite affordable. The initial setup costs—like the cage, bedding, food, and toys—can add up, but after that, the monthly expenses are minimal. Food and bedding cost around $10 per month, making them one of the most budget-friendly pets you can own.

6. Adorable and Cute

One of the biggest reasons people choose hamsters as pets is their cuteness. Hamsters have that perpetual “baby animal” look with their tiny size, big eyes, and soft fur. They’re irresistibly cute, and their small size makes them perfect for cuddling (when they’re in the mood).

7. Short Lifespan

While it might sound like a downside, the short lifespan of a hamster (2-4 years) can be a plus for some people. If you’re not ready for a long-term commitment, a hamster is a good choice. They’re a great way to experience pet ownership without the long-term responsibility.

8. Self-Exercise

Hamsters are incredibly active, and they love to run on their wheels. This means they get most of their exercise on their own, so you don’t need to worry about taking them for walks or making sure they get enough physical activity. Just provide a good quality wheel, and your hamster will do the rest.

9. Non-Allergenic and Low Shedding

Hamsters don’t shed much, which is great for people with allergies or those who prefer a pet that doesn’t leave fur all over the house. They also don’t produce dander like cats and dogs, making them a suitable pet for people with mild allergies.

10. Quiet Companions

Hamsters are generally quiet pets. They might make a little noise when running on their wheel or rummaging through their bedding, but they’re not vocal like dogs or birds. If you live in a small space or prefer a quiet environment, a hamster is an ideal pet.

11. Safe for No-Pet Apartments

Many apartments have no-pet policies, but hamsters are often an exception. Because they’re small, quiet, and stay in their cages, landlords are usually more lenient with hamsters than with larger pets.

12. They Stay Put

Unlike cats and dogs, which can roam freely around your home, hamsters stay in their cages. This means you won’t trip over them or find them getting into places they shouldn’t be. They’re safe and contained, which is great if you like things to be neat and orderly.

Downsides of Owning a Hamster

While hamsters are great pets, they do have some downsides that you should consider before bringing one home.

1. Difficult to Tame

Hamsters can be more challenging to tame than other pets. They’re naturally skittish and may take time to warm up to handling. Patience and gentle interaction are key to building trust with your hamster.

2. Unpredictable Personalities

Hamster personalities can vary widely. Some are friendly and enjoy being handled, while others may be more independent or even aggressive. It’s hard to predict a hamster’s personality when they’re young, so you might not know what kind of hamster you’re getting until they’re older.

3. Less Affectionate

Hamsters aren’t as affectionate as dogs or cats. They might tolerate being held for short periods, but they’re not likely to cuddle with you for long. If you’re looking for a pet to snuggle with, a hamster might not be the best choice.

4. Nocturnal Habits

Hamsters are nocturnal, meaning they’re most active at night. If you go to bed early, you might miss out on a lot of your hamster’s activity. This can also be a downside if you’re a light sleeper, as the noise from their wheel or digging might keep you awake.

5. Sensitive Creatures

Hamsters are delicate animals and can be sensitive to changes in their environment. They’re easily startled and can even die from stress-related heart attacks. They also have specific temperature needs and can become ill if not properly cared for.

6. Surprise Litters

If you accidentally house a male and female hamster together, you could end up with a surprise litter. Hamsters breed quickly, and it’s not uncommon for new owners to find themselves with a dozen hamsters instead of just one or two.

Conclusion

Hamsters can make wonderful pets for the right person. They’re low-maintenance, entertaining, and incredibly cute. However, they do have their challenges, such as being harder to tame and less affectionate than other pets. If you’re considering getting a hamster, weigh the pros and cons to see if a hamster is the right pet for you.